Chronology of the Symbolic and Mythological Transformation of Italy's Images in Gumilyov's Works

The subject of the study is Nikolai Stepanovich Gumilev's "Italian Cycle" of poems. The article presents a deep and comprehensive investigation of the evolution of the images of Italy in the poetic legacy of Nikolai Gumilev, one of the leading representatives of the Russian Silver Age. It analyzes the multifaceted influence of Italian culture and its symbolism on the formation of his poetic style, tracing it from early works to mature creativity. The research begins with an analysis of the origins of Gumilev's interest in Italy, grounded in his personal impressions from numerous trips across the country and intensive study of Italian literature, philosophy, and art. Gumilev emerges as a historian, researcher, connoisseur, and expert of ancient heritage, managing to convey to the reader not only the beauty of Italian architecture but also to immerse them in the astonishing world of myths and legends of this beautiful country. The article provides a chronological reconstruction of the trips as well as a systematic analysis of the works included in the "Italian Cycle." The scientific novelty of the research lies in the fact that there has been no previous systematization and chronological ordering of the works in the "Italian Cycle," especially with an emphasis on the mythological transformation of the conveyed images. A special contribution of the author to the research on the topic is that the article offers a holistic model of analysis of how Nikolai Stepanovich's perception evolved from initial impressions and admiration for the beautiful country to a profound immersion in the culture and traditions of Italy. The works of the "Italian Cycle" continue to remain relevant due to the vivid and distinctive images created by the poet. The intertwining of the mythical and the real, along with detailed descriptions interspersed with figurative and philosophical reflections, forms a unique creative combination that harmonizes the heritage of world culture, prompting each reader to reflect on the values that time cannot erode. The "Italian Cycle" is not just a collection of poems but a kind of guide that allows the reader to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the country, feel its spirit, and see it through the eyes of the poet himself.